Colazal

Pronounced: KOHL-a-zahl
Generic name: Balsalazide disodium

Why is this drug prescribed: Colazal is used in the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis (chronic inflammation and ulceration of the lower intestine). It is an anti-inflammatory medicine specially formulated to release the active ingredient, mesalamine, directly to the lining of the colon. Its ability to provide relief without the severe side effects found with similar drugs is believed to be due to this localized drug delivery mechanism.

Most important fact about this drug: Although there have been no reports of kidney damage from Colazal, other products containing mesalamine are known to have caused this problem. If you have kidney disease, your doctor will monitor your condition closely during treatment with Colazal. Report any problems or unusual symptoms immediately.

How should you take this medication: Colazal can be taken with or without food.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as possible. If it is within two hours of your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.

Why should this drug not be prescribed: Do not take Colazal if you are allergic to mesalamine (Rowasa) or salicylates such as aspirin.

Special warnings about this medication: Some cases of fatal liver disease have been reported during treatment with Colazal. If you have a liver problem, make sure your doctor is aware of it before you start treatment.
If you have pyloric stenosis (narrowing of the stomach outlet), Colazal capsules may be slow to pass through the digestive tract.
Although many people get significant relief from Colazal, you should be aware that in rare cases it makes the symptoms worse.
This drug has not been tested in children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication: While drug interactions with Colazal have not yet been studied, it is possible that oral antibiotics could interfere with the release of this medication in the colon.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding: The effects of Colazal during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor before taking this medication. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
It is not known whether Colazal appears in breast milk. Because there's a chance that it may, caution is advised.

Recommended dosage: The usual dose of Colazal is three 750-milligram capsules taken 3 times daily for 8 to 12 weeks.

Overdosage: Little is known about Colazal overdose. However, any drug taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.